Chapter 3 - Classification systems: spine trauma

Abstract

Classification system for spine trauma has been in use for over 50 years but there continues to be significant debate on the ideal classification system as well as how newly developed classification systems should be validated for clinical use. The primary goal of this chapter is to provide an overview of the past and present classification systems for cervical, thoracolumbar, and sacral fractures. Additionally, a brief summary of the epidemiology and anatomy of each region will be discussed.